In this tutorial, we will learn how to turn on the mesh light in SketchUp. The mesh light feature allows you to add realistic lighting effects to your 3D models, giving them a more immersive and professional look.
Step 1: Creating a Mesh Light
To start, open your SketchUp project and navigate to the “Extensions” menu. From there, select “Mesh Lights” and click on “Create Mesh Light”.
Step 1.1: Selecting the Light Type
A dialog box will appear, prompting you to choose the type of light you want to create. You can select either a point light or a rectangle light. For this tutorial, we will choose the rectangle light option.2: Adjusting the Light Settings
After selecting the rectangle light option, another dialog box will appear, allowing you to adjust various parameters such as size, intensity, color, and position of the mesh light.
- Size: Use this parameter to adjust the size of the light source. You can increase or decrease its dimensions according to your requirements.
- Intensity: This setting determines how bright the mesh light will be. You can adjust it to create subtle or intense lighting effects.
- Color: Choose a color for your mesh light by clicking on the color swatch and selecting from the available options.
- Position: Use this parameter to move the mesh light around your model until you achieve the desired lighting effect.
Step 2: Applying Mesh Light Materials
Once you have created and adjusted your mesh light, it’s time to apply the materials to your model. To do this, select the surfaces where you want the mesh light to emit illumination.
Step 2.1: Selecting Surfaces
Use the selection tool in SketchUp to choose the surfaces that you want to assign the mesh light material to. You can select individual faces or entire groups/components.2: Applying Mesh Light Material
After selecting the desired surfaces, right-click and choose “Entity Info”. In the “Materials” section, click on the drop-down menu and select “Mesh Light” as your material.
Note: If you don’t see the Mesh Light material option in the drop-down menu, make sure you have installed and activated the Mesh Lights extension correctly.
Step 3: Adjusting Mesh Light Settings
To further enhance your mesh light effects, you can adjust additional settings such as intensity and color temperature.
Step 3.1: Adjusting Intensity
To modify the intensity of your mesh light, go to “Window” > “Model Info” > “Rendering”. From there, adjust the “Light Intensity Multiplier” until you achieve your desired lighting effect.2: Changing Color Temperature
If you want to change the color temperature of your mesh light, go to “Window” > “Model Info” > “Rendering”. Locate and adjust the “Color Temperature” slider accordingly.
Congratulations! You have successfully turned on and customized a mesh light in SketchUp. Experiment with different settings to create stunning lighting effects for your 3D models!